This blog is about my life as a mom, raising a son with a mood disorder. This is a tough journey and I hope that my words may allow others living with this illness see that they’re not alone. I’m also using this blog as a tool to process my own feelings and let go of the pain that I carry inside. If you’re new to this blog, check out my list of “Important Posts” in the right column and feel free to share your story with me. This blog shouldn’t be used for medical advice.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Latest Research—Illnesses Connected Genetically?

One of my followers shared this New York Times news story with me this week. In the largest genetic study for psychiatric disorders, researchers discovered 5 disorders that share genetic risk factors. They include,schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, ADHD and major depression, all which share common genetic factors that point to a specific signaling system. This is an exciting study that takes us one step closer to better treatment. And for families like mine who have children with different disorders in the list above, this study helps bring understanding for what we’re experiencing firsthand in our homes.http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/01/health/study-finds-genetic-risk-factors-shared-by-5-psychiatric-disorders.html?_r=0

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About Me

I’m a 45 year old Mama Bear married to my sweetheart for 25 years. We have 3 wonderful boys ages 16, 14 and 12. My oldest started showing signs of a mood disorder around 8 years ago. He is diagnosed with Bipolar NOS and recently Autism (Aspergers) and is taking Lithium, Wellbutrin and Melatonin and is in therapy with our HMO. Our youngest was diagnosed with Autism (Aspergers), ADHD and may also have a mood disorder. He is currently taking Prozac to help with anxiety and depression and has had great success with ABA therapy.